Bond Set For RHS Teacher Accused of Theft, Drugs

The Rhinelander high school teacher accused of theft and marijuana manufacturing will be allowed out of jail to seek drug treatment.

Oneida County Circuit Judge Michael Bloom set a $1,500 cash bond for Joshua Jurgens. Public Defender Maggie Hogan said arrangements had been made for treatment December 9....

"....we have secured a bed for him at Koinonia that is available for him on December 9. I would also request the court consider to modify his bond to allow treatment..."

District Attorney Michael Schiek said Juergens could be a flight risk with minimal ties to the area and another time not appearing as ordered for a court appearance...

"....I still think his non-appearance on the underlying disorderly conduct charge is telling..."

Juergens was ordered to appear last week on the disorderly conduct charge and did not. A warrant led to a search of his residence where a marijuana grow was allegedly found along with items alleged to be from Rhinelander high school and some prescription drugs that weren't his.

Bloom agreed to let Juergens go to a Rhinelander treatment facility if still in jail. He ordered him back to court next Thursday. Hogan entered not guilty pleas to the lesser charges.